In music, beats (also known as pulses) are used as a steady foundation for other rhythms and melodies. Similarly to your heartbeat, there are quick beats and slow beats which remain constant throughout. Beats can also speed up or slow down depending on the pace of the music and how it changes.

Without a beat, you would get confused as to when to come in, as the music would have no clear layout or path. So, if you can clap the beat of your piece, then you know you’ve got it!

Can you hear the beats in The Message by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five? Clap along to find out…

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